Rugby union puts up $67,000 World Cup payment

The New Zealand Rugby Union has laid down the required $67,000 deposit to bid for the 2011 World Cup and chief executive Chris Moller is confident New Zealand can go it alone as sole host.

With final bids due with Rugby World Cup Ltd by May, Moller yesterday announced that the NZRFU had taken its bid to the next stage by making the £25,000 ($66,977) deposit.

"We want to look at all options available to us in regards to the potential for New Zealand to host this tournament," he said.

"While there are significant challenges in the scale and scope of the event, we believe that New Zealand may be able to lodge a competitive bid to host the Rugby World Cup again."

The cup was rugby's premier event and had major tourism and economic spinoffs.

"There are a range of details that require the involvement of both central and local government in terms of delivering this event, ranging from immigration to security, transport and infrastructure, as well as funding," Moller said.

With Japan and South Africa also likely bidders for 2011, speculation last week in South Africa had New Zealand pulling out because it lacked a large stadium. Argentina has also expressed interest in hosting some matches of a tournament based in South Africa.

- NZPA